Taunton's long-awaited 'park and bus' facility is now open, providing residents of the Orchard Grove housing development with easy access to public transport. Located on the A38, this new facility is part of a larger project that will see the construction of 2,000 homes, commercial spaces, and community amenities.
Facility Opens After Lengthy Delays
The 'park and bus' facility, which includes a 200-space free car park, has been completed since the summer of 2025. However, legal negotiations between Somerset Council and the developers delayed its opening. Now, with those matters resolved, the facility is ready to welcome the public. The new site is strategically located between Wellington Road and Honiton Road on the western edge of Taunton, making it easily accessible for local residents.
Council officials announced the news with enthusiasm, emphasizing the importance of this facility in improving public transport options within the area. This addition is expected to enhance the existing transport links, which include two other 'park and ride' services situated on the A358 in Ruishton and A3065 Silk Mills Road.
Electric Buses Serve New Route
The facility will be serviced by electric buses operating on routes 22, 22A, and X22, connecting Taunton with Wellington. This modern approach to public transportation aims to reduce the town's carbon footprint while providing a convenient alternative to driving. Residents can park their vehicles at the facility and easily board the bus for trips into the town center.
Councilor Richard Wilkins, who holds the portfolio for transport and waste services, highlighted the benefits of this initiative. "People can park up and jump on a scheduled bus that will take them into the center of our county town," he said. He noted that this service would alleviate the stress of finding parking in the town center and promote the use of public transport.
Community Impact and Future Growth
As part of the Orchard Grove development, which will eventually feature 2,000 homes, the 'park and bus' facility is expected to significantly impact both new residents and those in the surrounding area. Alongside housing, the project will also include commercial premises, a care home, and a primary school. This multifaceted development plan reflects a commitment to creating a sustainable and self-sufficient community.
Peter Sadler, managing director of Vistry Southwest, one of the consortium partners behind the Orchard Grove project, expressed satisfaction with the facility's opening. "We're delighted that the park and bus facility we developed is now opening at Orchard Grove. This represents a significant milestone and demonstrates our commitment to creating a modern, sustainable community with excellent transport connections," he stated.
Affordable Transport Options for All
While the park and bus facility is free to use for parking, standard bus fares will apply for travel. The government's £3 fare cap remains in effect, making it an affordable choice for residents. This pricing strategy aims to encourage more people to utilize public transport rather than relying on personal vehicles, thereby contributing to a greener environment.
The facility aims to not just serve the needs of new residents but also the broader Taunton community. It offers an opportunity for those living outside the immediate area to access the town's amenities conveniently. As the Orchard Grove development progresses, the expectation is that the demand for public transport will increase, necessitating further enhancements to the service.
With the opening of the 'park and bus' facility, Taunton takes a significant step toward modernizing its transport infrastructure. This new addition reflects a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable transport solutions in urban planning. As the community grows, it will be pivotal for local authorities to continue fostering developments that prioritize public transport access, ensuring that residents can navigate their town efficiently and with minimal environmental impact.